Maine Memory Network

'E' neon glow bulb, ca. 1930

Contributed by: Maine Historical Society Date: circa 1930 Media: Glass, metal

Reproduction 1879 light bulb, ca. 1929

Contributed by: Maine Historical Society Date: circa 1929 Media: Glass, wood, carbon, bakelite

Wired! How Electricity Came to Maine

As early as 1633, entrepreneurs along the Piscataqua River in southern Maine utilized the force of the river to power a sawmill, recognizing the potential of the area's natural power sources, but it was not until the 1890s that technology made widespread electricity a reality -- and even then, consumers had to be urged to use it.

Washington County Through Eastern's Eye

Images taken by itinerant photographers for Eastern Illustrating and Publishing Company, a real photo postcard company, provide a unique look at industry, commerce, recreation, tourism, and the communities of Washington County in the early decades of the twentieth century.

Lubec, Maine - The Lighthouse at West Quoddy Head

"A mechanized base holds two bulbs which automatically pivots 180 degrees should one burn out, simultaneously telemetering a status signal to Coast…"

Lubec, Maine - McCurdy Herring Smokehouse - Page 2 of 4

"Except for the electric light bulbs and plastic baskets, the Brining Room was basically the same traditional space."

Catching live bait with Grandfather
by Randy Randall

We never bought live bait for fishing. Grandfather caught all the minnows and shiners we needed.

If You Knew My Story
by Anonymous (Maine State Prison)

A story about incarceration in Maine